Clark Atlanta senior running for mayor of Stockbridge

STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. - A Clark Atlanta student is making history in his hometown of Stockbridge by becoming the youngest person ever to run for mayor in the city.

Senior Jayden Williams announced his candidacy in January with the slogan "Ready to Lead Together."

The backstory:

Williams, a political science major at Clark Atlanta, is the grandson of Henry County Commissioner Vivian Thomas.

When he's not studying, he serves as the chairman of the Stockbridge Planning Commission.

Williams also served as the youth mayor emeritus for the City of Stockbridge Youth Council and the chairman emeritus of the Youth Leaders of Henry.

What they're saying:

"Stockbridge raised me, but Clark Atlanta educated me," Williams told HBCU Buzz after announcing his candidacy. "The rich history and legacy of CAU have profoundly shaped my journey, and I carry that legacy with pride as I work to serve our community."

One of the issues he wants to address as mayor is the need for affordable housing in the city while keeping high standards for sustainability.

"If we fail to address these issues, we risk losing the sense of community that makes Stockbridge unique and jeopardizing our environmental future," Williams said.

What's next:

Williams is running to win the seat currently held by Mayor Anthony Ford.

He'll have graduated from Clark Atlanta University by the election in November.